An Anthology of Modern Arabic Poetry

The first bilingual anthology of contemporary Arabic poetry in English presents a substantial collection of modern Arabic poetry, offering insight into the contemporary cultural situation of the Arab peoples. The anthology emphasizes poetic quality and presents three successive generations of poets, linked by a progressive shift from emphasis on form to emphasis on content. Numerous contemporary poets make their first appearance in English, and the bilingual character of the anthology makes it suitable for students of Arabic literature and a wider readership with general poetic and literary interests.

Format: Hardback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2022
Publisher: University of California Press

This bilingual anthology represents the first significant effort to present a comprehensive collection of contemporary Arabic poetry in the English language. It serves as a valuable introduction for English-speaking readers to the modern evolution of one of the world's most prominent poetic traditions, while also providing insights into the contemporary cultural landscape of the Arab peoples.

In the realm of English translations of Arabic poetry, there has been a tendency towards achieving geographical representation at the expense of prioritizing the Neo-Classicist school of thought. However, the present anthology takes a different approach, placing poetic quality as the paramount criterion for selection. It demonstrates an explicit interest in the works of free verse poets, showcasing three successive generations: the Syro-Americans, the Egyptian modernists, and the poets of the free-verse movement. These generations are interconnected by a progressive shift from an exclusive focus on form to an emphasis on content and form, resulting in a relatively detached portrayal of the external world that gradually evolves into a concern with the expression of individual experiences.

Within the pages of this anthology, numerous contemporary poets make their debut in English, with some of them specifically contributing pieces for this collection. The bilingual nature of the anthology is intended to make it suitable for use by students of Arabic literature, while also appealing to a broader readership with a general interest in poetry and literature. An essential consideration in assembling the anthology was the viability of a poem in its English translation as a standalone piece of literature, as well as the excellence of its Arabic original. By successfully adhering to this criterion, the anthology promises to provide immense aesthetic pleasure.

Furthermore, this work holds significant interest for students of comparative literature, as it showcases the profound influence of several Western literary traditions on modern Arab letters. The anthology serves as a testament to the dynamic interplay between different cultures and languages, highlighting the ways in which poetry can transcend geographical and cultural boundaries.

In conclusion, this bilingual anthology represents a groundbreaking endeavor in bringing contemporary Arabic poetry to the English-speaking world. By presenting a diverse range of voices and styles, it offers a profound exploration of the Arab cultural heritage and provides a valuable window into the contemporary experiences of the Arab peoples. Whether one is a student of Arabic literature or a passionate admirer of poetry, this anthology is a must-read for anyone seeking to broaden their understanding and appreciation of the world's poetic traditions.

Weight: 544g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520358744